The Reds conceded the lead on the stroke of the first half from a penalty against the local giants, who pumped in two more goals after the break.

The losing finalists in the National League this year resorted to a defensive approach to avoid a big defeat with an eye on their next game against another Kolkata giants -- Mohammedan Sporting Club, who suffered a 4-1 defeat against East Bengal, according to a message received in Dhaka.

Muktijoddha now must beat Mohammedan tomorrow to advance into the last four from this group.